Jeanine Eileen Hirsch

Born on September 24, 1946, in Tampa, Florida, Jeanine was the beloved daughter of William E. Jacob and Catherine E. McQuillan. From an early age, she was drawn to a life of faith, education, and service. As a young woman, she entered the religious order of the School Sisters of Notre Dame, where she devoted herself to Catholic education and ministry, touching the lives of countless students and colleagues.

Jeanine earned her bachelor's degree from the College of Notre Dame of Maryland and later a master's degree from Fordham University. She began her ministry as a teacher, and taught at Bishop Barry and Notre Dame High Schools, which later merged to become St. Petersburg Catholic High School. After leaving the SSND order in 1981, she served as an editor for the Florida Catholic and later as editor of Catholic New York. Her gifts for education, writing, and leadership led to positions in higher education, including service as Vice President for Institutional Advancement at the College of Saint Elizabeth in New Jersey, where she led fundraising, alumni relations, and institutional development efforts. She also served as Director of Development at Pasco-Hernando Community College in Florida.

On June 30, 1995, Jeanine married Richard Hirsch in West Point, New York. Their marriage marked a new chapter while continuing the values that had always guided Jeanine's life. Jeanine and Dick shared a passion for travel and entertaining, and were known for gracious dinners filled with stories of their journeys together. Jeanine made her home with Dick in River Edge, New Jersey, before returning to Florida.

In later years, she served as Public Relations Director for Habitat for Humanity of Citrus County, where she championed affordable housing and community outreach. Whether in education, journalism, fundraising, or nonprofit work, Jeanine brought compassion, intelligence, integrity, and genuine kindness to every endeavor.

Jeanine is survived by her niece, nephews, and their extended families, along with many cherished friends. She also leaves behind generations of former students, colleagues, and members of the communities she served, all of whom were enriched by her wisdom, encouragement, and example.

Her family gives thanks for a life devoted to faith, learning, compassion, and service. Though she will be deeply missed, her legacy will continue in the lives she touched and the love she shared.

A Memorial Service for Jeanine will be held at St. Benedict's Church in Crystal River on August 16th.

May she rest in eternal peace.